Vocational Training
Meaningful participation in the workplace
CherishAbility partners with Christian Science camps and other organizations to offer this expansive opportunity.
Trainees work in paid positions while learning both job- and life-skills. They contribute important services in supportive work environments.
Applications are open for our 2026 summer training sessions. Please click here to apply by March 16
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CherishAbility’s Vocational Training Program is an inclusive and inspired program for Christian Scientists with developmental special needs where trainees gain useful job and life skills and are valued contributors in a supportive work environment.
As a result, trainees will:
grow in their understanding of Christian Science and its application to their daily lives
learn technical skills needed to perform job-related tasks
expand and practice interpersonal communication skills as they navigate professional and personal relationships
develop time management skills essential to employment
mature in their independence in carrying out life skills associated with personal care (i.e. grooming, laundry, tidiness, etc.)
This is a paid position. Trainees may forgo pay if it interferes with other benefits.
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Session 1 - A/U Ranches
Trainee arrival day: Tuesday, June 16
Training days: Wednesday, June 17 – Thursday, June 18
Session dates: June 18 – July 2, 2026
Trainee departure day: Thursday, July 2
Session 2 - Camps Newfound and Owatonna
Trainee arrival day: Saturday, July 11
Training day: Sunday, July 12
Session dates: Sunday, July 12 – Friday, August 7
Wellspring Gardens: TBD
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Christian Scientists with developmental special needs who are:
18 years of age or older
interested in developing job- and life-skills in a Christian Science workplace environment
able to safely demonstrate the skills necessary for the particular job.
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CherishAbility trainees work as a cohesive unit throughout the program, but may have differing job tasks during working hours. The job positions require moderate to vigorous physical activity, and in some cases, demanding work schedules. See job descriptions below.
Job site: A/U Ranches | Buena Vista, CO
Job site: Camps Newfound and Owatonna | Harrison, ME
Job site: Wellspring Gardens | Converse, TX
Click here for the online application
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Trainees and CherishAbility staff are housed together. 24/7 care is provided and specific adaptations are applied to every aspect of the program—training, job tasks, housing and care needs, off-hours activities, travel, etc.
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There is no tuition for this program, however there are costs associated with travel, uniforms, and spending money for days off.
Financial assistance is available here.
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Packing List (2025 Summer)
Questions? Please contact the CherishAbility Program Director by email or call 480.875.6958.
Vocational Training Video
Watch this video and learn more about us and how some of the trainees in the Vocational Training Program are putting their new skills in action.
2025 Vocational Training Photos
“One outcome from my son’s experience last year, is the fact that he easily got hired as a dishwasher at a local restaurant. He knew he could do the job based on his experience washing dishes at your Vocational Training program. He is working in a supportive atmosphere and continues to let his light shine.”
— CherishAbility Parent